Peruvian pisco shines on famous American TV show

The renowned Spanish chef and philanthropist, José Andrés, appeared on the famous American television show The Ellen DeGeneres Show to prepare some recipes from his new book "Vegetables Unleashed", including a pisco sour cocktail with chickpeas.

During the preparation, José Andrés, the only chef in the world who has a restaurant with two Michelin stars and four Bib Gourmands, highlighted the origin of Peru's national drink which is made from grapes (pisqueras). He also pointed out that drinking pisco, a Peruvian beverage, contributes to local economies and to the farmers of the world.

In addition to featuring pisco, the cocktail prepared by José Andrés included simple syrup, lime, Angostura bitters, and aquafaba (chickpea juice) replacing the egg whites. While shaking the cocktail, the Spanish chef commented that this movement was a good way to work out in the morning, to which Ellen replied "Oh, in the morning you do this", causing laughter in the audience.

Once the pisco sour was finished, Ellen DeGeneres said that it was the first time she had tasted this drink. "I've never heard of this. Wine is made from grapes, and this tastes like...okay it's pisco," said the winner of several Emmy awards.

Next, the U.S. nationalized chef prepared another recipe using purple cabbage, which he juiced to make a soup, to add to a salad or include with rice. Finally he prepared a taco party, using squash blossom and cheese to make a cheeseadilla.

About the book

Vegetables Unleashed is a cookbook written by Spanish chef José Andrés and American journalist and food writer Matt Goulding. It seeks to teach readers to eat more vegetables in the most diverse and satisfying way possible. It's about how to roast, simmer, and fry throughout the seasons; how to unleash the flavors of a global pantry on everything from apples to zucchini; how to turn a few roots and leaves into something you can't stop thinking about.

The book includes recipes, tips and tricks for the dishes that have made José one of America's top chefs. The publication is dedicated to the late American writer, presenter and chef Anthony Bourdain, and it’s out now.

Leading television show

With more than 15 years on the air, The Ellen DeGeneres Show is one of the most watched programs in the world. Personalities such as Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Ryan Gosling, Jennifer Aniston, George Clooney, Bruno Mars and Kobe Bryant have been interviewed by the American celebrity.

Before giving life to this show, Ellen DeGeneres, was the main star of the Ellen series, which was on the air for 5 seasons.

Did you know?

• José Andrés is an Honorary Ambassador of the Spain Brand. In 2012 and 2018 he appeared on Time magazine's "100 Most Influential People" list.
• In late 2017, José Andres' team served nearly four million meals to people in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria.
• In 2010, José Andrés created World Central Kitchen, an NGO that provides smart solutions to end hunger and poverty, using the power of food to revive communities and strengthen economies.

Sources:Ellentube/ joseandres.com/ vegetablesunleashed.com/ctv.ca